{"content_id":"8buztxhb90","slug":"japan-series-2026-schedule-japan-broadcast","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"news","category_name":"News","title":"2026 Japan Series Schedule and Broadcasts in Japan","summary":"The SMBC Japan Series 2026 pits Yokohama DeNA against SoftBank. This guide covers the game-by-game schedule starting October 24, broadcast channels in Japan, recorded broadcasts and overseas viewing restrictions.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["The 2026 Japan Series opens in Yokohama on October 24.","Games 1 and 6 start at 18:30, and the other scheduled games start at 18:00.","Games 1, 2, 6 and 7 take place in Yokohama; games 3, 4 and 5 take place in Fukuoka.","TVer is listed for online coverage of every scheduled game but does not support viewing from overseas.","The series ends when one team wins 4 games. Rain postponements and ties may change the schedule."],"content_markdown":"The SMBC Japan Series 2026 is a matchup between Yokohama DeNA and SoftBank. It opens in Yokohama on **October 24 (Japan)**. Games are scheduled in Yokohama and Fukuoka through Game 7 on November 1 (Japan). Japanese TV and online coverage varies by game.\n\nGame times and broadcast schedules are based on NPB's announcement of October 20, 2026.\n\n## Japan Series 2026 game schedule\n\nGames 1 and 6 start at 18:30, and the other scheduled games start at 18:00. The table below shows the 2026 schedule. Times are Japan Standard Time, which is the same as Korea Standard Time.\n\n| Game | Date | Start time | Host city and stadium |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Game 1 | Saturday, October 24 | 18:30 | Yokohama, Yokohama Stadium |\n| Game 2 | Sunday, October 25 | 18:00 | Yokohama, Yokohama Stadium |\n| Travel day | Monday, October 26 | No game | Travel to Fukuoka |\n| Game 3 | Tuesday, October 27 | 18:00 | Fukuoka, Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka |\n| Game 4 | Wednesday, October 28 | 18:00 | Fukuoka, Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka |\n| Game 5 | Thursday, October 29 | 18:00 | Fukuoka, Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka |\n| Travel day | Friday, October 30 | No game | Travel to Yokohama |\n| Game 6 | Saturday, October 31 | 18:30 | Yokohama, Yokohama Stadium |\n| Game 7 | Sunday, November 1 | 18:00 | Yokohama, Yokohama Stadium |\n\nThe stadium's Japanese name is Yokohama Stadium (横浜スタジアム). The Fukuoka stadium's name is Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka (みずほPayPayドーム福岡). Schedule changes can be checked on the [official NPB tournament page](https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/).\n\n## Which teams are competing?\n\nThe Japan Series is a matchup between the winners of the two leagues' Climax Series. The Central League and Pacific League qualifiers compete for the Japanese professional baseball championship. NPB announced the 2026 tournament rules on October 9.\n\nThis year's matchup is the Yokohama DeNA BayStars against the SoftBank Hawks. The Yokohama DeNA BayStars' original-language name is 横浜DeNAベイスターズ. Their opponents are the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks (福岡ソフトバンクホークス). The tournament format is explained in [NPB's tournament rules announcement](https://npb.jp/news/detail/20261009_01.html).\n\n## Comparing Japanese TV and online coverage\n\nJapanese TV and online coverage varies by game. The table below shows the schedule NPB announced on October 20, 2026. A broadcaster's program may start at a different time from the game.\n\n| Game | Japanese TV coverage | Online coverage |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Game 1 | TBS | U-NEXT, TVer |\n| Game 2 | TBS, NHK-BS | U-NEXT, TVer |\n| Game 3 | TBS, NHK-BS | U-NEXT, TVer |\n| Game 4 | Nippon TV | Hulu, TVer |\n| Game 5 | TV Asahi | ABEMA, TVer |\n| Game 6 | TBS | U-NEXT, TVer |\n| Game 7 | TBS | U-NEXT, TVer |\n\nNippon TV's original-language name is Nippon Television (日本テレビ). TV Asahi is written テレビ朝日. The source for this table is [NPB's TV and online coverage announcement](https://npb.jp/news/detail/20261020_02.html).\n\nTVer appears in the online coverage schedule for every scheduled game. U-NEXT is listed for Games 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7. Hulu is listed for Game 4, and ABEMA for Game 5.\n\nNPB's coverage schedule does not list prices or subscription requirements. A service's name alone is therefore not enough to establish that viewing is free. Prices and supported devices should be checked in each service's information for the game.\n\n## How do game and broadcast start times differ?\n\nThe scheduled game start time is when the first pitch is due. A broadcast may begin earlier for pregame coverage. Recorded broadcasts are scheduled separately after the game ends.\n\n| Item | Information confirmed in official listings | Meaning |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Game 1 | October 24, 2026, at 18:30 | NPB game start time |\n| TBS Game 1 program | From October 24, 2026, at 18:11 | Includes pregame coverage |\n| TBS Channel recorded broadcasts | Late-night scheduling for Games 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7 | Separate from live coverage at game time |\n\nTBS's start time for Game 1 appears on the [program schedule page](https://www.tbs.co.jp/tv/20261024_C46B.html). The page says the broadcast time may change. Check the latest schedule just before watching.\n\n### TBS Channel late-night recorded broadcasts\n\nTBS Channel is a paid CS broadcaster. Its program page lists the following recorded broadcasts. The table below converts late-night times into their actual calendar dates.\n\n| Game | Actual broadcast date | Broadcast time |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Game 1 | October 25, 2026 | 03:30~09:00 |\n| Game 2 | October 26, 2026 | 03:30~09:00 |\n| Game 3 | October 28, 2026 | 03:30~09:00 |\n| Game 6 | November 1, 2026 | 03:30~09:00 |\n| Game 7 | November 2, 2026 | 03:30~09:00 |\n\nFor example, “3:30 a.m. late on October 24” means the early morning of October 25. Another program may air if a game is canceled or the series ends early. Detailed listings should be checked on the [TBS Channel Japan Series program page](https://www.tbs.co.jp/tbs-ch/item/s1974/).\n\n## Time difference and viewing region in Korea\n\nIn Korea, Japanese game times can be read as they are. Both countries use UTC+9. Being in the same time zone, however, does not mean having the same access to broadcasts.\n\nTVer videos can be watched **only within Japan**. TVer's official help page says viewing from overseas is not possible. TVer therefore cannot be presented as a viewing option in Korea.\n\n| Item to check | What it means in Korea |\n| --- | --- |\n| Game at 18:30 in Japan | Also 18:30 on the same day in Korea |\n| TVer listed for every game | Japan-only access conditions apply |\n| Names of Japanese TV channels | Do not indicate broadcast rights held by Korean broadcasters |\n| U-NEXT, Hulu and ABEMA listings | Overseas access conditions must be checked with each service |\n\nThe overseas restriction is explained in [TVer's official help page](https://help.tver.jp/hc/ja/articles/5106803908633). The page also excludes viewing through a VPN from its supported uses. NPB's Japanese coverage announcement alone cannot establish which broadcaster officially carries the series in Korea.\n\n## What to watch for\n\nThe main things to watch are the change in host city and the designated hitter rule. A designated hitter bats in place of the pitcher. NPB's tournament rules apply this rule at the Pacific League qualifier's home games.\n\n- Games 1, 2, 6 and 7 are scheduled in Yokohama.\n- Games 3, 4 and 5 are scheduled in Fukuoka.\n- The designated hitter rule applies to games in Fukuoka.\n- Starting pitchers will be announced in advance for every game.\n\nThe two teams will not play every game under the same batting-order rules. This difference helps explain how players are used in each game. The applicable rules are set out in [NPB's tournament rules](https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/information.html).\n\n## Schedule changes due to an early finish, rain or a tie\n\nOnce one team wins **4 games**, the remaining games will not be played. Listing games through Game 7 does not mean every game will take place. The original wording of the ending rule in NPB's tournament rules is:\n\n\u003e 一方のチームが4勝した時点で日本シリーズは終了。\n\u003e\n\u003e Source: NPB, “SMBC Japan Series 2026 Tournament Rules”\n\nIf a game is canceled because of rain or another reason, it is postponed and played at the same stadium. Travel days may also be adjusted as a result. Final dates and start times are subject to NPB's change notices.\n\n| Situation | Treatment under the tournament rules |\n| --- | --- |\n| One team reaches 4 wins | Series ends |\n| A game through Game 7 is still tied after 12 innings | Tie |\n| No champion after Game 7 | Game 8 at the same stadium the next day |\n| Extra innings from Game 8 onward | No inning limit |\n\nNovember 1 is the original scheduled date for Game 7. Rain or tied games could delay the end of the series. It should therefore not be treated as a fixed final date.\n\n## Frequently asked questions\n\n### Does every game start at 6 p.m.?\n\nNo. Games 1 and 6 start at 18:30. The other scheduled games start at 18:00.\n\n### Is every game scheduled on TVer?\n\nNPB's announcement lists TVer for Games 1 through 7. But if the series ends early, the remaining games will not be played. TVer's overseas viewing restriction also applies separately.\n\n### Are TBS and TBS Channel the same viewing option?\n\nThe two listings must be distinguished here. TBS in NPB's coverage schedule is different from the paid CS broadcaster TBS Channel. The relevant listings on TBS Channel's program page are recorded broadcasts.\n\n### Will NHK-BS carry every game?\n\nNPB's announcement lists NHK-BS only for Games 2 and 3. It should not be read as a schedule for every game. For the other games, check the broadcasters in the coverage table above.\n\n### Does the Japanese coverage schedule show whether I can watch in Korea?\n\nNot on its own. Broadcast rights and the regions where services can be used are separate conditions. In particular, TVer officially does not support viewing from overseas.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eThe SMBC Japan Series 2026 is a matchup between Yokohama DeNA and SoftBank. It opens in Yokohama on \u003cstrong\u003eOctober 24 (Japan)\u003c/strong\u003e. Games are scheduled in Yokohama and Fukuoka through Game 7 on November 1 (Japan). Japanese TV and online coverage varies by game.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGame times and broadcast schedules are based on NPB's announcement of October 20, 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#japan-series-2026-game-schedule\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"japan-series-2026-game-schedule\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eJapan Series 2026 game schedule\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGames 1 and 6 start at 18:30, and the other scheduled games start at 18:00. The table below shows the 2026 schedule. Times are Japan Standard Time, which is the same as Korea Standard Time.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGame\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDate\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStart time\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHost city and stadium\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eSaturday, October 24\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003e18:30\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eYokohama, Yokohama Stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 2\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eSunday, October 25\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003e18:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eYokohama, Yokohama Stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eTravel day\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eMonday, October 26\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003eNo game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eTravel to Fukuoka\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 3\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eTuesday, October 27\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003e18:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eFukuoka, Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 4\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eWednesday, October 28\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003e18:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eFukuoka, Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 5\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eThursday, October 29\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003e18:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eFukuoka, Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eTravel day\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eFriday, October 30\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003eNo game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eTravel to Yokohama\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 6\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eSaturday, October 31\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003e18:30\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eYokohama, Yokohama Stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 7\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eSunday, November 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Start time\"\u003e18:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Host city and stadium\"\u003eYokohama, Yokohama Stadium\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stadium's Japanese name is Yokohama Stadium (横浜スタジアム). The Fukuoka stadium's name is Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka (みずほPayPayドーム福岡). Schedule changes can be checked on the \u003ca href=\"https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/\"\u003eofficial NPB tournament page\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#which-teams-are-competing\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"which-teams-are-competing\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhich teams are competing?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Japan Series is a matchup between the winners of the two leagues' Climax Series. The Central League and Pacific League qualifiers compete for the Japanese professional baseball championship. NPB announced the 2026 tournament rules on October 9.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis year's matchup is the Yokohama DeNA BayStars against the SoftBank Hawks. The Yokohama DeNA BayStars' original-language name is 横浜DeNAベイスターズ. Their opponents are the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks (福岡ソフトバンクホークス). The tournament format is explained in \u003ca href=\"https://npb.jp/news/detail/20261009_01.html\"\u003eNPB's tournament rules announcement\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparing-japanese-tv-and-online-coverage\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparing-japanese-tv-and-online-coverage\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparing Japanese TV and online coverage\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJapanese TV and online coverage varies by game. The table below shows the schedule NPB announced on October 20, 2026. A broadcaster's program may start at a different time from the game.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGame\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eJapanese TV coverage\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eOnline coverage\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Japanese TV coverage\"\u003eTBS\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Online coverage\"\u003eU-NEXT, TVer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 2\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Japanese TV coverage\"\u003eTBS, NHK-BS\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Online coverage\"\u003eU-NEXT, TVer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 3\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Japanese TV coverage\"\u003eTBS, NHK-BS\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Online coverage\"\u003eU-NEXT, TVer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 4\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Japanese TV coverage\"\u003eNippon TV\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Online coverage\"\u003eHulu, TVer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 5\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Japanese TV coverage\"\u003eTV Asahi\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Online coverage\"\u003eABEMA, TVer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 6\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Japanese TV coverage\"\u003eTBS\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Online coverage\"\u003eU-NEXT, TVer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 7\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Japanese TV coverage\"\u003eTBS\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Online coverage\"\u003eU-NEXT, TVer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNippon TV's original-language name is Nippon Television (日本テレビ). TV Asahi is written テレビ朝日. The source for this table is \u003ca href=\"https://npb.jp/news/detail/20261020_02.html\"\u003eNPB's TV and online coverage announcement\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTVer appears in the online coverage schedule for every scheduled game. U-NEXT is listed for Games 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7. Hulu is listed for Game 4, and ABEMA for Game 5.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNPB's coverage schedule does not list prices or subscription requirements. A service's name alone is therefore not enough to establish that viewing is free. Prices and supported devices should be checked in each service's information for the game.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-do-game-and-broadcast-start-times-differ\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-do-game-and-broadcast-start-times-differ\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow do game and broadcast start times differ?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scheduled game start time is when the first pitch is due. A broadcast may begin earlier for pregame coverage. Recorded broadcasts are scheduled separately after the game ends.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eItem\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eInformation confirmed in official listings\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMeaning\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eGame 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in official listings\"\u003eOctober 24, 2026, at 18:30\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eNPB game start time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eTBS Game 1 program\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in official listings\"\u003eFrom October 24, 2026, at 18:11\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eIncludes pregame coverage\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item\"\u003eTBS Channel recorded broadcasts\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Information confirmed in official listings\"\u003eLate-night scheduling for Games 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eSeparate from live coverage at game time\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTBS's start time for Game 1 appears on the \u003ca href=\"https://www.tbs.co.jp/tv/20261024_C46B.html\"\u003eprogram schedule page\u003c/a\u003e. The page says the broadcast time may change. Check the latest schedule just before watching.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#tbs-channel-late-night-recorded-broadcasts\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"tbs-channel-late-night-recorded-broadcasts\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eTBS Channel late-night recorded broadcasts\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTBS Channel is a paid CS broadcaster. Its program page lists the following recorded broadcasts. The table below converts late-night times into their actual calendar dates.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eGame\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eActual broadcast date\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBroadcast time\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Actual broadcast date\"\u003eOctober 25, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Broadcast time\"\u003e03:30~09:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 2\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Actual broadcast date\"\u003eOctober 26, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Broadcast time\"\u003e03:30~09:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 3\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Actual broadcast date\"\u003eOctober 28, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Broadcast time\"\u003e03:30~09:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 6\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Actual broadcast date\"\u003eNovember 1, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Broadcast time\"\u003e03:30~09:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Game\"\u003eGame 7\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Actual broadcast date\"\u003eNovember 2, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Broadcast time\"\u003e03:30~09:00\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, “3:30 a.m. late on October 24” means the early morning of October 25. Another program may air if a game is canceled or the series ends early. Detailed listings should be checked on the \u003ca href=\"https://www.tbs.co.jp/tbs-ch/item/s1974/\"\u003eTBS Channel Japan Series program page\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#time-difference-and-viewing-region-in-korea\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"time-difference-and-viewing-region-in-korea\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eTime difference and viewing region in Korea\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Korea, Japanese game times can be read as they are. Both countries use UTC+9. Being in the same time zone, however, does not mean having the same access to broadcasts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTVer videos can be watched \u003cstrong\u003eonly within Japan\u003c/strong\u003e. TVer's official help page says viewing from overseas is not possible. TVer therefore cannot be presented as a viewing option in Korea.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eItem to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat it means in Korea\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eGame at 18:30 in Japan\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it means in Korea\"\u003eAlso 18:30 on the same day in Korea\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eTVer listed for every game\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it means in Korea\"\u003eJapan-only access conditions apply\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eNames of Japanese TV channels\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it means in Korea\"\u003eDo not indicate broadcast rights held by Korean broadcasters\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eU-NEXT, Hulu and ABEMA listings\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it means in Korea\"\u003eOverseas access conditions must be checked with each service\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe overseas restriction is explained in \u003ca href=\"https://help.tver.jp/hc/ja/articles/5106803908633\"\u003eTVer's official help page\u003c/a\u003e. The page also excludes viewing through a VPN from its supported uses. NPB's Japanese coverage announcement alone cannot establish which broadcaster officially carries the series in Korea.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-watch-for\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-watch-for\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to watch for\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main things to watch are the change in host city and the designated hitter rule. A designated hitter bats in place of the pitcher. NPB's tournament rules apply this rule at the Pacific League qualifier's home games.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGames 1, 2, 6 and 7 are scheduled in Yokohama.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGames 3, 4 and 5 are scheduled in Fukuoka.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe designated hitter rule applies to games in Fukuoka.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStarting pitchers will be announced in advance for every game.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two teams will not play every game under the same batting-order rules. This difference helps explain how players are used in each game. The applicable rules are set out in \u003ca href=\"https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/information.html\"\u003eNPB's tournament rules\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#schedule-changes-due-to-an-early-finish-rain-or-a-tie\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"schedule-changes-due-to-an-early-finish-rain-or-a-tie\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eSchedule changes due to an early finish, rain or a tie\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce one team wins \u003cstrong\u003e4 games\u003c/strong\u003e, the remaining games will not be played. Listing games through Game 7 does not mean every game will take place. The original wording of the ending rule in NPB's tournament rules is:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e一方のチームが4勝した時点で日本シリーズは終了。\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: NPB, “SMBC Japan Series 2026 Tournament Rules”\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf a game is canceled because of rain or another reason, it is postponed and played at the same stadium. Travel days may also be adjusted as a result. Final dates and start times are subject to NPB's change notices.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTreatment under the tournament rules\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eOne team reaches 4 wins\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Treatment under the tournament rules\"\u003eSeries ends\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eA game through Game 7 is still tied after 12 innings\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Treatment under the tournament rules\"\u003eTie\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eNo champion after Game 7\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Treatment under the tournament rules\"\u003eGame 8 at the same stadium the next day\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eExtra innings from Game 8 onward\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Treatment under the tournament rules\"\u003eNo inning limit\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNovember 1 is the original scheduled date for Game 7. Rain or tied games could delay the end of the series. It should therefore not be treated as a fixed final date.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#does-every-game-start-at-6-pm\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"does-every-game-start-at-6-pm\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDoes every game start at 6 p.m.?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Games 1 and 6 start at 18:30. The other scheduled games start at 18:00.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-every-game-scheduled-on-tver\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-every-game-scheduled-on-tver\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs every game scheduled on TVer?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNPB's announcement lists TVer for Games 1 through 7. But if the series ends early, the remaining games will not be played. TVer's overseas viewing restriction also applies separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#are-tbs-and-tbs-channel-the-same-viewing-option\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"are-tbs-and-tbs-channel-the-same-viewing-option\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eAre TBS and TBS Channel the same viewing option?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two listings must be distinguished here. TBS in NPB's coverage schedule is different from the paid CS broadcaster TBS Channel. The relevant listings on TBS Channel's program page are recorded broadcasts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#will-nhk-bs-carry-every-game\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"will-nhk-bs-carry-every-game\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWill NHK-BS carry every game?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNPB's announcement lists NHK-BS only for Games 2 and 3. It should not be read as a schedule for every game. For the other games, check the broadcasters in the coverage table above.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#does-the-japanese-coverage-schedule-show-whether-i-can-watch-in-korea\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"does-the-japanese-coverage-schedule-show-whether-i-can-watch-in-korea\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDoes the Japanese coverage schedule show whether I can watch in Korea?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot on its own. Broadcast rights and the regions where services can be used are separate conditions. In particular, TVer officially does not support viewing from overseas.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Sports broadcasting","Streaming","Japan Series"],"faqs":[{"question":"When does the 2026 Japan Series start?","answer":"Game 1 starts at 18:30 on October 24, 2026, at Yokohama Stadium."},{"question":"Which teams are playing in the 2026 Japan Series?","answer":"The Yokohama DeNA BayStars and the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks."},{"question":"Which games will be played in Yokohama and Fukuoka?","answer":"Games 1, 2, 6, and 7 are scheduled in Yokohama. Games 3, 4, and 5 are scheduled in Fukuoka."},{"question":"Do I need to convert the game times for South Korea?","answer":"There is no time difference between South Korea and Japan. A game at 18:30 in Japan is also at 18:30 on the same day in South Korea."},{"question":"Can I watch every game on U-NEXT?","answer":"The NPB broadcast schedule lists U-NEXT for Games 1, 2, 3, 6, and 7. It lists Hulu and TVer for Game 4, and ABEMA and TVer for Game 5."},{"question":"Can I watch the Japan Series on TVer from South Korea?","answer":"TVer's official help page says video viewing is limited to Japan. It therefore cannot be recommended as a way to watch from South Korea."},{"question":"Is the late-night broadcast on TBS Channel live?","answer":"The Japan Series program listing we checked is for a recorded broadcast. TBS Channel is a paid CS television channel."},{"question":"Does the Japan Series always go to Game 7?","answer":"It ends when one team wins four games. If ties leave no champion after Game 7, additional games are played."},{"question":"Will it definitely end on November 1, 2026?","answer":"November 1 was originally scheduled for Game 7. Rain delays or ties could push back the end date."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://npb.jp/news/detail/20261020_02.html","title":"NPB, SMBC Japan Series 2026 TV and internet broadcast announcement, October 20, 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/","title":"NPB, official SMBC Japan Series 2026 tournament page","type":"source"},{"url":"https://npb.jp/nippons/2026/information.html","title":"NPB, SMBC Japan Series 2026 event guidelines","type":"source"},{"url":"https://npb.jp/news/detail/20261009_01.html","title":"NPB, announcement of the SMBC Japan Series 2026 event guidelines, October 9, 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.tbs.co.jp/tv/20261024_C46B.html","title":"TBS, programming for Japan Series Game 1 on October 24, 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.tbs.co.jp/tbs-ch/item/s1974/","title":"TBS Channel, Pro Baseball SMBC Japan Series 2026","type":"source"},{"url":"https://help.tver.jp/hc/ja/articles/5106803908633-%E6%B5%B7%E5%A4%96%E3%81%A7%E3%82%82%E5%8B%95%E7%94%BB%E3%82%92%E8%A6%96%E8%81%B4%E3%81%A7%E3%81%8D%E3%81%BE%E3%81%99%E3%81%8B","title":"TVer Official Help, Can I Watch Videos from Overseas?","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":2010,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MzA5MjYsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--f1fe52b4b8f0355460bef90d01856e39d387e045/ai-148a00e1.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"해 질 무렵 관중석의 파란 재킷을 입은 남성 너머로 조명이 켜진 야구장과 선수들이 보인다.","caption":"2026 일본시리즈는 10월 24일 요코하마에서 개막한다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A man in a blue jacket watches a lit baseball field from the stands at sunset.","caption":"The 2026 Japan Series opens in Yokohama on October 24.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"夕暮れの観客席で青い上着の男性が、照明のついた野球場を見つめている。","caption":"2026年の日本シリーズは10月24日に横浜で開幕する。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un hombre con chaqueta azul observa desde las gradas un campo de béisbol iluminado al atardecer.","caption":"La Serie de Japón de 2026 comienza el 24 de octubre en Yokohama.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Pria berjaket biru memandang lapangan bisbol yang diterangi lampu dari tribun saat matahari terbenam.","caption":"Japan Series 2026 dimulai pada 24 Oktober di Yokohama.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um homem de casaco azul observa das arquibancadas um campo de beisebol iluminado ao pôr do sol.","caption":"A Japan Series de 2026 começa em 24 de outubro, em Yokohama.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"夕陽下，一名穿藍色外套的男子坐在觀眾席，望向亮燈的棒球場。","caption":"2026年日本大賽將於10月24日在橫濱開打。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein Mann in blauer Jacke blickt bei Sonnenuntergang von der Tribüne auf ein beleuchtetes Baseballfeld.","caption":"Die Japan Series 2026 beginnt am 24. Oktober in Yokohama.","description":null}}},{"id":2011,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MzA5MjcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--1da914405a31d0c20e7a7dc208eee2c781e9971b/ai-8ffa5994.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"새벽빛이 드는 거실에서 붉은 가디건을 입은 여성이 TV 야구 경기를 바라본다.","caption":"일본 내 중계 채널과 녹화방송 정보가 안내된다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A woman in a red cardigan watches a baseball game on TV in a living room at dawn.","caption":"The guide covers Japanese broadcast channels and recorded broadcasts.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"明け方の居間で、赤いカーディガンを着た女性がテレビの野球中継を見ている。","caption":"日本国内の中継チャンネルと録画放送の情報を案内する。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una mujer con un cárdigan rojo ve un partido de béisbol por televisión al amanecer.","caption":"Se detallan los canales de transmisión en Japón y las emisiones diferidas.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Seorang perempuan berkardigan merah menonton pertandingan bisbol di TV saat fajar.","caption":"Panduan ini memuat saluran siaran di Jepang dan informasi tayangan ulang.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Uma mulher de cardigã vermelho assiste a um jogo de beisebol na TV ao amanhecer.","caption":"O guia informa os canais de transmissão no Japão e as exibições gravadas.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"清晨的客廳裡，一名穿紅色開襟衫的女子正看著電視上的棒球賽。","caption":"本文整理日本境內的轉播頻道與錄播資訊。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Frau in roter Strickjacke sieht sich im Morgengrauen ein Baseballspiel im Fernsehen an.","caption":"Der Artikel informiert über japanische Übertragungssender und Aufzeichnungen.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-10-21T08:23:50+09:00","updated_at":"2026-10-21T08:23:50+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/japan-series-2026-schedule-japan-broadcast"}